- The problem solving process involves
- Understanding the problem - what is this program supposed to do? what does/do the solution(s) look like?
- Making a plan - this is where students actually design an algorithm
- Implementing that plan
- And reflecting on the strengths and flaws of the plan - what parts does the plan handle correctly? what parts of the plan still need work?
- It’s important that students understand that these steps are as those of a single process and that they are all necessary to honing their programming skills.
- Teachers can also use Polya’s "How to Solve It" book to learn more about problem solving strategies.